Facing The Enemy

“There is no temptation which you face that is not common to mankind. But God is faithful and will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but He will, with the temptation, make a way of escape…….” 1Corinthians 10:13

As we start off the season of Lent, it is fitting to turn our minds on the temptations, suffering and death of our Lord Jesus Christ.

There is one fundamental lesson we can learn from the way Jesus responded to temptation. He used only one strategy – The Word of God! Jesus quoted a verse from the Word that was relevant to each temptation with which He was confronted. He used no argument, just the Word of God. And He was victorious.

It is important to note that the temptations Jesus faced as a human being, are the same temptations that all human beings have to confront and struggle with. So we would be wise to adopt the strategy that Jesus used, an unfailing strategy. We should know the Word and use it to our advantage. In fact, St. Paul describes the Word as “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians6:17). It is an indispensable piece of the Christian armor. We need it because life abounds with temptations.

It is also noticeable that prior to Jesus’ temptations He was “full of the Holy Ghost.” (Luke 4:1) He was completely yielded to God and the accomplishment of God’s will. The Holy Spirit within every believer also helps us in our trials. Like Christ, we too can be victorious but we have to imitate Him – He is both the Way and the Light. He knows our weaknesses, our situations, and is always ready to help : “For because He has suffered, being tempted, He is able to help those who are tempted.” (Hebrews 2:18). In the same chapter St. Paul also tells us “…He (Jesus) was made like unto His brethren that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest…….to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.” As we face life’s challenges and temptations, let us be confident, knowing that Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit will give us the victory.

- Al Jones